Continuing culture: Past, present, future of the black community

Published 7:00 pm, Wednesday, February 21, 2007

The pioneers of Midlands black community never set out to make history, but they did. From John Johnson Sr.s career change from being lumberman to the citys first barber in the 1800s, to Lin Dormans 1960 introduction as the first black Ph.D. and first black professional in Midland at The Dow Chemical Co., it was all part of molding Midlands African American community.

Although not all are included here, each of them, whether well recognized scholars or those who stood behind the scenes in creating history, make up a rich culture.

Anne Hampton, part of the "second coming" of Midlands black community, moved to Midland in 1967 with her husband. She knows the culture firsthand.

"I feel we have been on a journey, and were still on it," Anne said. "And without prayer, the journey could not have been made."

Anne (75) and Leroy (79) were one of several black families who moved to Midland because of Dow. Leroy  said to be the first African American professional with Dow anywhere  was transferred to area from the Dow Rocky Flats plant in Denver.

For the Hamptons and other black families who moved to Midland, it was an experience they never will forget. But when you become the pioneers of anything, its something you tend to hold on to.

For the most part, it didnt concern the community that their new neighbors were black, the Hamptons said, echoing the words of other early black residents. They were immediately accepted, which was the case with the early 1800 pioneers as well. There might have been a few critics, but Midlands new residents rose above, bonding and becoming a family.

Living in harmony  whether black or white, young or old  can be done if you want it, Anne said. Over the years, thats what history shows, and thats exactly what the Hamptons have found to be the case in Midland. They have no doubt it will continue to stand true.

"Its not a Utopia, but its about as close as you can get," Anne said. And thats a part of Midlands culture that hopefully wont ever be forgotten.